LG G Flex 2 and LG G4 are released to work as duo smartphones, although not as obvious as Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge are. So instead of following the usual route, LG tries to modify the game a little bit by offering standalone yet complementing handsets from different product lines.
Similarities and Differences
Both the LG G Flex 2 and LG G4 have a 5.5 size display, 3GB of RAM, 32GB of internal memory with microSD support for storage expansion, and 3000mAh battery capacities. The two devices also run on Android Lollipop 5.0 but the G4 will have the latest UX 4.0 user interface. As expected from AMOLED display, the G Flex 2 screen display is not as clear as that of LG 4's QHD, with slight discoloration spotted on the curve-screened handset. Both are easy to grip, which is complemented by its buttonless frame.
There isn't much difference in appearance except for the obvious curved built from top to bottom of the G Flex 2 and the leather back cover of the G4. The hand-stitched leather back cover replaces the plastic design of its predecessor, while LG retains it for the Flex 2. Yes, the Flex 2 is plastic but the slight curved display elevates it now to a trend setter phone design. The Flamenco Red and Platinum Silver color options also make the look far from cheap.
While the G Flex 2 runs on Qualcomm's latest octa-core Snapdragon 810 processor, the G4 is powered by hexa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 processor. The LG G4's 148.9 x 76.1 x 6.3mm dimension makes it slimmer but heavier than the LG G Flex 2's 149.1 x 75.2 x 9.4mm.
Key Strengths
The LG G4 receives plus points for its superb camera features, particularly its f/1.8 aperture that is currently larger and faster than its direct competitors. Add to it its rich color display and elegant leather back cover, and the result is a handset that everyone wants from a smartphone.
The concave LG Flex 2 is flexible and durable, which can stand 1000 pounds of pressure and still goes back to its original arch form. It's easy to grip with smaller size than the full 6-inch predecessor. While it bends the same way like the 2013 G Flex, it comes with better display, faster processors and improved camera features.
Release and Price
LG G Flex is already available in the US from three network carriers, namely Sprint, US Cellular, and AT&T, and from Vadafone and Carphone Warehouse in the UK. The phone costs $737 (equivalent to about £480, AU$943), an amount that is pricier than LG's flagship phones.
The LG G4 has been released in Korea and may arrive in June to US, UK, and Australia. Price range from USD 649 for the plastic-covered variant and USD 699 for the model with the leather back.
Cons
The LG G4 comes with no QuickCharge technology, could do better with camera launcher, and the durability of leather is yet to be proven.
The LG G Flex 2's battery is not swappable, easily scratched self-healing back, and pricier. Techradar's hands-on review found its CPU speeds inconsistent and thinks that the curve doesn't add much.
Overall the LG G4 and the LG G Flex 2 is taking a gentle evolution from its already impressive predecessor, and with addition of certain elements like better software and curved front glass like in the G Flex 2, LG is offering more of a good deal than gimmickry. As long as you're not looking for a major revolutionary element in these devices, you won't be disappointed.
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